Simple Pecan Pie Bars

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There’s something about pecan pie that brings out the comfort and nostalgia of homemade desserts. But let’s be honest—making a full pie can be a bit of a project, especially when time is tight. That’s exactly why I love these Simple Pecan Pie Bars. They offer all the gooey, nutty, caramel-like goodness of classic pecan pie, but without the hassle of rolling out pie dough. One bowl for the crust, one for the filling, and you’re halfway to dessert bliss.

I made these for a family get-together not long ago, and they disappeared in minutes. The buttery shortbread base holds the rich filling perfectly, and the chopped pecans give it that perfect crunch. Whether you’re making them for a holiday party, a cozy Sunday treat, or just because you need something sweet and quick, these bars deliver every time.

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Why You’ll Love This Simple Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

These bars are everything you love about pecan pie, made easier. The crust is a quick shortbread-style base that doesn’t need to be chilled or blind-baked. The filling comes together in minutes, with a flavor that’s deep, sweet, and full of toasted pecan crunch. Plus, they slice beautifully and are ideal for sharing or storing for later.

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What Kind of Pecans Should I Use?

I prefer using chopped pecans because they distribute more evenly throughout each bite, giving you a consistent texture. You can also toast them lightly before adding them to the filling for an extra layer of flavor. Halved pecans work too if you like a more decorative top, but keep in mind they make slicing the bars a bit trickier.

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Options for Substitutions

Don’t have corn syrup? You can use maple syrup or honey in a pinch, though the flavor will shift slightly (and deliciously). For a dairy-free option, swap the butter with a high-quality vegan alternative. If you’re out of pecans or want a twist, walnuts or cashews can be used, though it’ll taste less traditional. You can even try a gluten-free flour blend for the crust to make these bars gluten-friendly.

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Ingredients for this Simple Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

All-Purpose Flour – This forms the base of the crust, giving it a sturdy, shortbread-like texture that holds up well under the gooey filling.

Unsalted Butter – Cold, cubed butter is essential for a tender and rich crust. It also adds that melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to both the crust and the filling, balancing the rich pecan flavor.

Salt – Just a pinch to enhance and balance the sweetness.

Eggs – They bind the filling together and give it a custardy texture.

Light Corn Syrup – The classic sweetener in pecan pie, giving the filling its signature sticky texture.

Brown Sugar – Provides a deeper, molasses-like sweetness that complements the nuttiness of the pecans.

Vanilla Extract – Rounds out the flavor and adds warmth.

Chopped Pecans – The star of the show. They bring crunch, flavor, and a beautiful nutty aroma.

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Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides for easy lifting later. In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and cold, cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press it evenly into the bottom of the pan.

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Step 2: Bake the Crust

Bake the crust for about 18-20 minutes until it’s lightly golden. While it bakes, prepare the pecan filling.

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Step 3: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, light corn syrup, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans until well combined.

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Step 4: Assemble and Bake Again

Once the crust is out of the oven, pour the pecan filling evenly over the hot crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggles. The top should be golden and slightly cracked.

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Step 5: Cool and Slice

Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cool, lift them out using the parchment paper and transfer to a cutting board. Slice into squares or rectangles as desired.

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How Long to Prepare the Simple Pecan Pie Bars

Making these pecan pie bars is surprisingly quick and efficient compared to baking a full pie. The active prep time takes about 15 minutes, especially if you measure out your ingredients ahead of time. Making the crust and mixing the filling are both straightforward steps that don’t require any special equipment.

The baking and cooling time will take the bulk of your patience. You’ll bake the crust for 20 minutes, then bake again with the filling for another 30–35 minutes. After baking, it’s crucial to let the bars cool for at least 2 hours to fully set before slicing. Altogether, plan on about 3 hours from start to finish, most of it hands-off.

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Tips for Perfect Simple Pecan Pie Bars

• Line your pan with parchment paper and leave overhangs on the sides. It makes removing the bars so much easier.
• Toast your pecans before mixing them into the filling to enhance their flavor and aroma.
• Cool completely before slicing. Cutting too early results in a gooey mess.
• Use a serrated knife or a sharp chef’s knife, and clean between cuts for sharp, neat bars.
• Chill slightly for firmer bars if you’re serving them at a party or stacking them in containers.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Undercooking the crust: If the crust isn’t baked enough before adding the filling, it can turn soggy.
• Overbaking the filling: Watch closely—if the top begins to crack too much or darken significantly, it may be overdone.
• Cutting too soon: It’s tempting, but slicing before they’ve cooled completely can ruin the structure.
• Skipping the parchment paper: You’ll regret it when trying to lift sticky bars from the pan.
• Not mixing the filling properly: If the eggs aren’t fully whisked in, the texture may turn uneven.

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What to Serve With Simple Pecan Pie Bars?

1. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

The cold creaminess cuts through the sweetness and adds a lovely contrast.

2. Hot Coffee or Espresso

Balances the richness and adds depth to the dessert experience.

3. Whipped Cream with Cinnamon

A light, airy topping that pairs beautifully with the nutty caramel flavor.

4. Bourbon Glaze Drizzle

Perfect for adult gatherings—adds warmth and sophistication.

5. Fresh Berries

Slightly tart fruits like raspberries or cranberries add brightness to each bite.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temp for up to 3 days. They stay soft and gooey without refrigeration.

Refrigerator: If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Use wax paper between layers if stacking.

Freezer: These bars freeze exceptionally well. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. They’ll last for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or for a couple of hours on the counter.

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Estimated Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar (based on 24 bars)

• Calories: 280
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 70mg
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 18g
• Protein: 3g

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the filling is set?

It should no longer jiggle in the center when gently shaken. The top may be slightly cracked or puffed.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely. They taste even better the next day and store beautifully.

What can I use instead of corn syrup?

Try maple syrup or honey for a slightly different flavor. Golden syrup is also a good substitute.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.

How do I keep the crust from crumbling?

Make sure your butter is cold and your flour is well mixed. Press the crust firmly and evenly into the pan.

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Conclusion

Simple Pecan Pie Bars bring all the indulgence of traditional pecan pie into a more convenient, easy-to-share format. With a buttery shortbread crust and that signature gooey filling, every bite delivers comfort and flavor. Whether you’re making them for a holiday dessert table or just a sweet treat to have on hand, these bars are guaranteed to become a go-to favorite in your baking rotation.

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